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Fatal
An eye for an eye.
Cabhan Morton wants to leave the Russo crime family for good and live in peace with his daughter, Alice Rose. But the Russos won’t let him walk away without a fight.
A tooth for a tooth.Franny Doyle would do anything for Cabhan and Alice, but helping them escape the vindictive Russo brothers won’t be easy. The only place they’ll be safe is back in Essex with Alfie Jennings.
A daughter for a daughter…Franny knows she won’t be welcomed by Alfie with open arms – but she doesn’t have a choice. The Russos are out for blood and they won’t stop until Alice is dead…
The heart-racing new thriller perfect for fans of Jessie Keane’s Ruby Darke series and Martina Cole’s THE LADYKILLER.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 10, 2019
173 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Jacqui Rose
33 books175 followersJacqui Rose is a novelist who hails from Manchester and South Yorkshire, though she now lives in the South East in the countryside, surrounded by her horses and lots of animals. Jacqui first came to appreciate the power of the written word when as a child she charged her classmates a packet of sherbet dips to write their essays for them. Adopted at a young age and always a daydreamer, she felt isolated growing up in a small mining village in South Yorkshire and it was her writing which kept her company.
Jacqui has written a variety of things including
stand-up comedy, radio drams and screenplays.
She is published by HarperCollins and Pan Macmillan and has written over 16 bestselling novels. She is also collaborating with Martina Cole on Martina's new novel, Loyalty.
Jacqui Rose also writes under the name of
J P Rose (not to be confused with the American author!) and has written, The Haunting of Tyrese Walker her first teen/YA novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 19, 2019
5☆ Intoxicating Gangland Thriller, that will take you on a rollercoaster of a ride!
Wow oh wow what a thrilling, edge of your seat, rollercoaster of a ride! I devoured in two nights.
I just want to say I really recommend reading Toxic first as the characters and some of the threads of the previous book cross over and it might take you a while to catch up.
This time round the story is focused on Cabhan his sixteen year old daughter Alice Rose, Franny, Alfie and the Russo brothers Nico and Salvatore.
The Russo brothers are extremely Ruthless, Dangerous, Brutal and have no qualms in killing innocent men, women & children to get what they want.
They demand 'Respect' at all costs.
They are not a family to be messed with.
As Cabhan is quickly learning when he tries to get out of the game with extremely dangerous consequences!
Up to now he has kept his daughter Alice a secret, hidden away in a religious school. But secrets have a way of leaking out!
'Ready or Not Alice' there coming for you!
Brrrr it gave me CHILLS right down my spine and made my blood run cold.
What comes next is ruthless and chilling Cat and Mouse Chase, where there can be only one winner!
My god is this book a Heartstopping Thriller!
As the plot thickens so does the pace at times it left me breathless, almost scared to breath as I was so caught up in the moment
Fatal is a pacy gangland thriller, that is Gritty, suspenseful, sinister, chilling, oozes danger, has the perfect cast of eclectic multi-layered, challenging characters that at times are so real it's scary.
Jacqui Rose is an incredibly talented author.
She is one of my favourite Authors.
Yet again she has written a deliciously dark, twisty, spine tingling gangland thriller, that will get under your skin and leave you breathless.
Would I recommend reading Fatal?
Without a Doubt ..... 100%....... YES!!
Thank you to Avon Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Wow oh wow what a thrilling, edge of your seat, rollercoaster of a ride! I devoured in two nights.
I just want to say I really recommend reading Toxic first as the characters and some of the threads of the previous book cross over and it might take you a while to catch up.
This time round the story is focused on Cabhan his sixteen year old daughter Alice Rose, Franny, Alfie and the Russo brothers Nico and Salvatore.
The Russo brothers are extremely Ruthless, Dangerous, Brutal and have no qualms in killing innocent men, women & children to get what they want.
They demand 'Respect' at all costs.
They are not a family to be messed with.
As Cabhan is quickly learning when he tries to get out of the game with extremely dangerous consequences!
Up to now he has kept his daughter Alice a secret, hidden away in a religious school. But secrets have a way of leaking out!
'Ready or Not Alice' there coming for you!
Brrrr it gave me CHILLS right down my spine and made my blood run cold.
What comes next is ruthless and chilling Cat and Mouse Chase, where there can be only one winner!
My god is this book a Heartstopping Thriller!
As the plot thickens so does the pace at times it left me breathless, almost scared to breath as I was so caught up in the moment
Fatal is a pacy gangland thriller, that is Gritty, suspenseful, sinister, chilling, oozes danger, has the perfect cast of eclectic multi-layered, challenging characters that at times are so real it's scary.
Jacqui Rose is an incredibly talented author.
She is one of my favourite Authors.
Yet again she has written a deliciously dark, twisty, spine tingling gangland thriller, that will get under your skin and leave you breathless.
Would I recommend reading Fatal?
Without a Doubt ..... 100%....... YES!!
Thank you to Avon Books for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
December 12, 2018
Franny Doyle never thought that she would be turning up on Alfie Jennings new Essex doorstep begging for help and protection. The notoriously violent Russo brothers, Nico, Salvador and Bobby, are after her and they don't take no for an answer. The brothers will stop at nothing to get their quest. Cabhan had gone to work for them even though Albie had warned him not to. He is traveling with Nico's daughter when she crashes the car. When Cabhan comes round, he discovers that she has died and that there are drugs in the door panels. He gets rid of the drugs so that he can call for help. The Russo brothers want back every penny for the drugs.
This is the second book to feature Franny and Alfie but it's the first book by this author that I have read. I did find it a bit confusing at times and the similar names (Albie & Alfie) did not help. The pace is fast and there is a lot of characters to keep up with. I think it would have read better if I had read Toxic first.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Avon Books UK and the author Jacqui Rose for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book to feature Franny and Alfie but it's the first book by this author that I have read. I did find it a bit confusing at times and the similar names (Albie & Alfie) did not help. The pace is fast and there is a lot of characters to keep up with. I think it would have read better if I had read Toxic first.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Avon Books UK and the author Jacqui Rose for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2019
Fatal does follow on from Jacqui’s last novel Toxic but it can be read as a standalone. This time her story starts in America before returning to Essex. Some of the old characters continue, the attitude and storytelling remains the same plus fresh challenges including a naive teenager called Alice Rose.
Fatal is a violent novel involving gangs of criminals who become hell bent on revenge. There is plenty of action along the way and the story moves along at a fast pace.
For such an adult novel, the inclusion of Alice Rose, a 16 year old naive God bothering girl is frustrating. This is NOT Harry Potter and this child clearly has no place among these violent adult criminals guarding their patch. Despite this, Jacqui does write a good story which is easy to follow. The plot of Fatal is NOT as involved as the plot in Toxic. But the dialogue between characters is still sharp, for example…
‘Enough. I know there’s a story of how that Jesus bloke chatted away happy as Larry with them leopards and accepted them for what they were.’
‘Lepers, not leopards. It’s not The Lion King, Lola.’
...I found Fatal is be a GOOD entertaining read and while it is in a very similar mode to Toxic, the reduced intricacies of the plot and the frustrations of Alice Rose being a part of the story, made this a 4 star read for me. I did not enjoy Fatal as much as I enjoyed Toxic. Looking at the ending, Alice Rose should clear off and her next novel should continue with the criminals of Essex enjoying their life of crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Avon Books UK for giving me a copy of this book on the understanding that I provide an honest review.
Fatal is a violent novel involving gangs of criminals who become hell bent on revenge. There is plenty of action along the way and the story moves along at a fast pace.
For such an adult novel, the inclusion of Alice Rose, a 16 year old naive God bothering girl is frustrating. This is NOT Harry Potter and this child clearly has no place among these violent adult criminals guarding their patch. Despite this, Jacqui does write a good story which is easy to follow. The plot of Fatal is NOT as involved as the plot in Toxic. But the dialogue between characters is still sharp, for example…
‘Enough. I know there’s a story of how that Jesus bloke chatted away happy as Larry with them leopards and accepted them for what they were.’
‘Lepers, not leopards. It’s not The Lion King, Lola.’
...I found Fatal is be a GOOD entertaining read and while it is in a very similar mode to Toxic, the reduced intricacies of the plot and the frustrations of Alice Rose being a part of the story, made this a 4 star read for me. I did not enjoy Fatal as much as I enjoyed Toxic. Looking at the ending, Alice Rose should clear off and her next novel should continue with the criminals of Essex enjoying their life of crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Avon Books UK for giving me a copy of this book on the understanding that I provide an honest review.
January 10, 2019
It's that time again; time for another gritty, gangland thriller from one of the best in the business, Jacqui Rose. Fatal, the second novel to feature Franny and Alfie and their wider family dynamic. It's a high-octane adrenaline-fuelled romp through the dangerous turf war between rival gangs and of gangland warfare that is resorted to in order to gain the upper hand in a particularly horrific and ensuing dispute. Both sides appear to be that used to the despicable violence and getting the jump on a frenemy that they are now nonchalant and disconnected from their actions, and no-one outside of this toxic mudslinging wants to get involved.
The interconnected families in Jacqui's books not only show that loyalty as a gang member is the single most important trait you can have in a fight like this one' and should you commit an act of betrayal you are inviting the wolves to your door. The family ties focused on make this an emotional tale, much more emotional than its predecessor, and this only added to the rollercoaster ride of thrills and spills. With a whole cast of flawed, tough and resolute characters, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read. Dark, disturbing and highly entertaining; I'm already looking forward to Rose's next instalment of this plucky drama.
Many thanks to Avon for an ARC.
The interconnected families in Jacqui's books not only show that loyalty as a gang member is the single most important trait you can have in a fight like this one' and should you commit an act of betrayal you are inviting the wolves to your door. The family ties focused on make this an emotional tale, much more emotional than its predecessor, and this only added to the rollercoaster ride of thrills and spills. With a whole cast of flawed, tough and resolute characters, this is a thoroughly enjoyable read. Dark, disturbing and highly entertaining; I'm already looking forward to Rose's next instalment of this plucky drama.
Many thanks to Avon for an ARC.
January 13, 2019
Oh my! This is my first book by Jacqui Rose and I loved it - it certainly doesn't pull any punches and gets straight into the action.
Cabhan Morton works for the ruthless Russo crime family but wants to leave and live in peace with his 16 year old daughter Alice Rose. But leaving a family like the Russo's isn't that easy. When Cabhan disappears, the Rosso family target his daughter and Frannie Doyle, a family friend from the UK, takes £2 million from her partner Alfie, an ex-gangster and travels to America to help Cabhan and his daughter escape. Nico Russo, despite being in prison rules the Russo family and is determined to get to Alice Rose as revenge. Poor Alice has lived a very sheltered life and is deeply religious and knows nothing of her father's lifestyle choice.
The book is very, very violent so it's no good for you if you have a weak stomach! There is also a ton of swearing! The Russo family, especially Nico and Salvatore are really nasty - they are not the sort of people you'd want to get involved with. They have no patience for any sort of disloyalty or mistakes.
It's nice to see a crime thriller with strong female characters - most of the characters are men but the two main females in the book certainly hold their own without being nasty, which most of the men are. Franny, is often described by other characters as cold but she does care about others much more than herself. She will do anything to help Cabhan and Alice, and in fact everyone she comes into contact with. Alice starts the novel as a naïve and sheltered teenager - often making the situation worse. But as the book goes on, she becomes brave and resourceful.
I really enjoyed this - it hits the ground running and doesn't stop! It is an exciting read and I'd love to read more by Jacqui Rose.
Cabhan Morton works for the ruthless Russo crime family but wants to leave and live in peace with his 16 year old daughter Alice Rose. But leaving a family like the Russo's isn't that easy. When Cabhan disappears, the Rosso family target his daughter and Frannie Doyle, a family friend from the UK, takes £2 million from her partner Alfie, an ex-gangster and travels to America to help Cabhan and his daughter escape. Nico Russo, despite being in prison rules the Russo family and is determined to get to Alice Rose as revenge. Poor Alice has lived a very sheltered life and is deeply religious and knows nothing of her father's lifestyle choice.
The book is very, very violent so it's no good for you if you have a weak stomach! There is also a ton of swearing! The Russo family, especially Nico and Salvatore are really nasty - they are not the sort of people you'd want to get involved with. They have no patience for any sort of disloyalty or mistakes.
It's nice to see a crime thriller with strong female characters - most of the characters are men but the two main females in the book certainly hold their own without being nasty, which most of the men are. Franny, is often described by other characters as cold but she does care about others much more than herself. She will do anything to help Cabhan and Alice, and in fact everyone she comes into contact with. Alice starts the novel as a naïve and sheltered teenager - often making the situation worse. But as the book goes on, she becomes brave and resourceful.
I really enjoyed this - it hits the ground running and doesn't stop! It is an exciting read and I'd love to read more by Jacqui Rose.
June 13, 2019
Fatal is an adrenaline pumping read, one that gets better with each page you turn! Full of love, hate, betrayal and revenge, this crime thriller is gritty and violent, but with enough heart to emotionally involve you in the plot.
Rose is no newbie when it comes to gangland fiction, and if you’ve been following her novels, you’ll be familiar with the characters in this one: Alfie and Franny – two ‘faces’ who rule the roost in Essex and London (Soho). There is continuity to Rose’s books in terms of character backstories, so you’ll get more out of this one having read her previous novel, Toxic, but her books can be read in isolation as each one sees the characters facing new challenges. And Fatal sees them face their toughest challenge yet, because they are up again some truly cold villains. The Russos made me shudder, their reckless disregard for human life means blood will be shed, but to Franny and Alfie family means everything, and they’ll fight to the end to save Alice.
Alice, for me, had the most character progression in this plot – you could almost call this novel her coming-of-age. Her naivety grated on me in the beginning, it’s well-explained due to her sheltered life, but still… However, by the end of this novel she was one of my favourite characters. It’s always an achievement when an author changes your opinion of a character because it shows the character development has been believable and in keeping with the events that occurred. And I have to give a mention to Alice’s friend Isaiah – shades of Lisbeth Salander with that one!
This novel has a great contrast of love and hate. The Russos give this novel its ruthless edge, whereas you can feel the love between Franny and co. What’s really interesting about this one, and a sign of Rose’s skill, is that both sides use violence, both sides kill, but you only condemn one side – perhaps because you can see the moral code with Franny and Alfie, their backs against the wall and it’s kill or be killed, whereas the Russos are the kind of killers who kill for killings-sake with no moral compass to guide them.
Fatal would appeal to fans of Martina Cole, Kimberly Chambers and Jessie Keane; fans of London’s gangster underworld. This novel, like all Rose’s novels, is such an addictive read – it’s gritty, gripping, gangland fiction at its finest.
*My thanks to the publisher (Avon.) for providing me with a copy of this title*
Rose is no newbie when it comes to gangland fiction, and if you’ve been following her novels, you’ll be familiar with the characters in this one: Alfie and Franny – two ‘faces’ who rule the roost in Essex and London (Soho). There is continuity to Rose’s books in terms of character backstories, so you’ll get more out of this one having read her previous novel, Toxic, but her books can be read in isolation as each one sees the characters facing new challenges. And Fatal sees them face their toughest challenge yet, because they are up again some truly cold villains. The Russos made me shudder, their reckless disregard for human life means blood will be shed, but to Franny and Alfie family means everything, and they’ll fight to the end to save Alice.
Alice, for me, had the most character progression in this plot – you could almost call this novel her coming-of-age. Her naivety grated on me in the beginning, it’s well-explained due to her sheltered life, but still… However, by the end of this novel she was one of my favourite characters. It’s always an achievement when an author changes your opinion of a character because it shows the character development has been believable and in keeping with the events that occurred. And I have to give a mention to Alice’s friend Isaiah – shades of Lisbeth Salander with that one!
This novel has a great contrast of love and hate. The Russos give this novel its ruthless edge, whereas you can feel the love between Franny and co. What’s really interesting about this one, and a sign of Rose’s skill, is that both sides use violence, both sides kill, but you only condemn one side – perhaps because you can see the moral code with Franny and Alfie, their backs against the wall and it’s kill or be killed, whereas the Russos are the kind of killers who kill for killings-sake with no moral compass to guide them.
Fatal would appeal to fans of Martina Cole, Kimberly Chambers and Jessie Keane; fans of London’s gangster underworld. This novel, like all Rose’s novels, is such an addictive read – it’s gritty, gripping, gangland fiction at its finest.
*My thanks to the publisher (Avon.) for providing me with a copy of this title*
October 20, 2018
After finishing Toxic, I was eager to find out more about Franny and just why she appeared to betray Alfie, so the second I had an opportunity to read Fatal, I took it, as I got to see elements of Toxic from another point of view - while setting up another action packed story in its own right.
In fact its only after finishing Fatal, that I've just glanced at some of the other blurbs of books by Jacqui Rose and realised that all the books and characters are all inter-related, which if that carries on being the case may mean I am now a complete fan of the author, as I am already curious to see what happens to some of the main players next.
I found I liked the characters a lot more this time, possibly as I already was following the connections between them a bit more, and although they are gangsters they are people too, and they really did feel a lot more human this time.
Alice Rose, its 16, and due to the way she has been brought up, has a very strong belief in God, and can quote the bible - normally that is something that would have me running for the hills but as the book progressed and she grew into the new life that was being thrust upon her, she really grows, and I have to admire her guts.
The pace is relentless, its frenetic and there is always something going on, the perspective being changed, and although there is a large amount of characters, I was able to keep up reasonably well with the various threads.
There is something just utterly addictive about this book, and I couldn't stop turning the pages, and my adrenaline was still pumping from the action after I turned the last pages.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
In fact its only after finishing Fatal, that I've just glanced at some of the other blurbs of books by Jacqui Rose and realised that all the books and characters are all inter-related, which if that carries on being the case may mean I am now a complete fan of the author, as I am already curious to see what happens to some of the main players next.
I found I liked the characters a lot more this time, possibly as I already was following the connections between them a bit more, and although they are gangsters they are people too, and they really did feel a lot more human this time.
Alice Rose, its 16, and due to the way she has been brought up, has a very strong belief in God, and can quote the bible - normally that is something that would have me running for the hills but as the book progressed and she grew into the new life that was being thrust upon her, she really grows, and I have to admire her guts.
The pace is relentless, its frenetic and there is always something going on, the perspective being changed, and although there is a large amount of characters, I was able to keep up reasonably well with the various threads.
There is something just utterly addictive about this book, and I couldn't stop turning the pages, and my adrenaline was still pumping from the action after I turned the last pages.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,
January 14, 2019
I really need to read more from this author. Reading this book
Wowsers straight up I wanted to delete this story from my memory and read it again. It was so so good.
If you like stories of rival gangs and turf wars then this is the story for you. It’s a fast paced well written story that will stay with you for days after finishing the last page. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Wowsers straight up I wanted to delete this story from my memory and read it again. It was so so good.
If you like stories of rival gangs and turf wars then this is the story for you. It’s a fast paced well written story that will stay with you for days after finishing the last page. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
December 26, 2018
Time taken to read - in and out over 2 days
Pages - 384
Publisher - Avon
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
An eye for an eye.
Cabhan Morton wants to leave the Russo crime family for good and live in peace with his daughter, Alice Rose. But the Russos won’t let him walk away without a fight.
A tooth for a tooth.
Franny Doyle would do anything for Cabhan and Alice, but helping them escape the vindictive Russo brothers won’t be easy. The only place they’ll be safe is back in Essex with Alfie Jennings.
A daughter for a daughter…
Franny knows she won’t be welcomed by Alfie with open arms – but she doesn’t have a choice. The Russos are out for blood and they won’t stop until Alice is dead…
My Review
The Russo's are a bad lot and not people you want to cross, Cabhan Doyle was warned to stay but Cabhan went to work for them anyway. Now the warning has proven true and not only is Cabhan in trouble, his precious and innocent daughter Alice Rose is caught up in it all and the Russo's will stop at nothing and let no one get in the way of revenge!
I have read Rose before but this is the first time I have came across these characters, we open with a horrendous insight into the brutality of the Russo brothers, violence, rape, aggression. Now Cabhan finds himself on the wrong side of the brothers and their wrath is deadly. After a freak accident and a lose lose choice Cabhan needs to reach out to save not only himself but his daughter.
It is a fast paced book, we open with a brutal scene and it kicks off from there and keeps pace, you wonder why anyone would mix with these guys. Alice Rose is a sweet character and it is nice to have a bit of innocence in the mix of so much badness, violence and terror. I did find some of her choices very frustrating but also that of many of the characters, the old WHY?!?!?! and Nooooo don't do that oh for god-sake but even being frustrated at parts it pulls you right into the story and investing in where it is going next, what is going to happen. A lot of not very nice characters in this one and some you feel heart sorry for and rooting for them along the way. Not sure if this is going to have more coming but I would like to hear about more of these characters and see what is in store for them. I do enjoy this authors writing, think I have read two previous books and after reading this one I will be looking to see which I have missed from the back catalogue, 3.5/5 for me this time!
Pages - 384
Publisher - Avon
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
An eye for an eye.
Cabhan Morton wants to leave the Russo crime family for good and live in peace with his daughter, Alice Rose. But the Russos won’t let him walk away without a fight.
A tooth for a tooth.
Franny Doyle would do anything for Cabhan and Alice, but helping them escape the vindictive Russo brothers won’t be easy. The only place they’ll be safe is back in Essex with Alfie Jennings.
A daughter for a daughter…
Franny knows she won’t be welcomed by Alfie with open arms – but she doesn’t have a choice. The Russos are out for blood and they won’t stop until Alice is dead…
My Review
The Russo's are a bad lot and not people you want to cross, Cabhan Doyle was warned to stay but Cabhan went to work for them anyway. Now the warning has proven true and not only is Cabhan in trouble, his precious and innocent daughter Alice Rose is caught up in it all and the Russo's will stop at nothing and let no one get in the way of revenge!
I have read Rose before but this is the first time I have came across these characters, we open with a horrendous insight into the brutality of the Russo brothers, violence, rape, aggression. Now Cabhan finds himself on the wrong side of the brothers and their wrath is deadly. After a freak accident and a lose lose choice Cabhan needs to reach out to save not only himself but his daughter.
It is a fast paced book, we open with a brutal scene and it kicks off from there and keeps pace, you wonder why anyone would mix with these guys. Alice Rose is a sweet character and it is nice to have a bit of innocence in the mix of so much badness, violence and terror. I did find some of her choices very frustrating but also that of many of the characters, the old WHY?!?!?! and Nooooo don't do that oh for god-sake but even being frustrated at parts it pulls you right into the story and investing in where it is going next, what is going to happen. A lot of not very nice characters in this one and some you feel heart sorry for and rooting for them along the way. Not sure if this is going to have more coming but I would like to hear about more of these characters and see what is in store for them. I do enjoy this authors writing, think I have read two previous books and after reading this one I will be looking to see which I have missed from the back catalogue, 3.5/5 for me this time!
January 10, 2019
I should probably start this review off with an Oops: I thought this was a crime thriller. As in, the kind of story where the police or other law enforcement hunt down the ‘bad guys’ and hopefully all the ‘good guys’ live happily ever after. Instead, it turned out to be what I’d call ‘gangster fic’ where there are literally no good guys. Everyone’s involved in organized crime one way or another, and though there are definite sides, with the Russo crime family apparently glorying in bloodshed and violence and the rest just wanting to get along, I can’t quite get past the idea that it’s all blood money that’s being fought over.
I don’t like Breaking Bad or How To Get Away With Murder much either, because I can’t find anyone to root for. With everyone motivated by self-interest, I just want the lot of them gone. The one ‘innocent’ in the whole mess, Alice Rose, the 16-year-old daughter of one gangster, is portrayed as utterly naive, a sort of Madonna-like figure until she discovers she’s been wronged, at which point she becomes an impractically fearless avenging angel.
All I can say is that some people might like this sort of fiction but I really just disliked everyone involved, no matter which side they were supposed to be on. I can’t give it any more than two stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
I don’t like Breaking Bad or How To Get Away With Murder much either, because I can’t find anyone to root for. With everyone motivated by self-interest, I just want the lot of them gone. The one ‘innocent’ in the whole mess, Alice Rose, the 16-year-old daughter of one gangster, is portrayed as utterly naive, a sort of Madonna-like figure until she discovers she’s been wronged, at which point she becomes an impractically fearless avenging angel.
All I can say is that some people might like this sort of fiction but I really just disliked everyone involved, no matter which side they were supposed to be on. I can’t give it any more than two stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
April 14, 2019
Soooo good! loved :)
January 20, 2019
Credit to Jacqui Rose she has done it again. Fatal is another brilliant engrossing book from this author and just as good as the last book Toxic.
I just could not put it down, a fantastic read from the first chapter to the last page.
Well worth reading and would highly recommend this book to all fans of gritty crime gangland novels.
I just could not put it down, a fantastic read from the first chapter to the last page.
Well worth reading and would highly recommend this book to all fans of gritty crime gangland novels.
November 5, 2018
Another excellent book from Jacqui Rose i love when i read a book and some old charactors pop up i can highly recommend this book most definitely worth 5*
January 27, 2019
Fatal – A Brilliant Jacqui Rose Thriller
Jacqui Rose is a woman who really knows how to write a gripping thriller, that grabs you by the throat from the first sentence until the last. For someone who has lived in Yorkshire, with a period of exile in Soho, she certainly knows Essex, London and its environs. This knowledge helps her to craft a gangland thriller that any crime reader will love.
Cabhan Morton wants to leave the Russo crime family, no easy task, and live with his daughter, Alice Rose. He knows the Russo family will not let him walk out, he knows far too much and certainly knows where the bodies are buried. The Russo family will kill him first before they ever allow him to leave. He has no opportunity to run.
He is bullied by the Russo family to accompany 16-year-old Ally Russo home, as she drives a red McLaren GT. Like the rest of the family she likes to show off and bully people and driving fast. On a mountain road with a car far too powerful for her, she loses control, spins the car off the road and is killed but somehow Cabhan survives. When he comes around, he sees Ally is dead and there is enough cocaine stuffed in the car that would put him away. He also sees this as a chance to run, and he takes it.
Franny Doyle would do anything for Cabhan, and especially when she realises the trouble he is in, and that means Alice Rose is also in trouble. Even though she is holding the money for Alfie Jennings an old-time gangster and takes off to help Cabhan, the rush is to get to Alice Rose.
The Russo family will be out for revenge, for the death and more importantly for the cocaine. It does not help that the head of the family, Nico, in prison learns of the death of his daughter and the loss of product, and takes it personal, and sets his brothers to settle the score. They will not care who gets killed if they get in the way, vengeance will theirs and the Alice is dead.
From the USA to England with bodies dropping everywhere the Russo’s close in on Cabhan and Alice Rose, this will be a battle to the death.
Jacqui Rose is a woman who really knows how to write a gripping thriller, that grabs you by the throat from the first sentence until the last. For someone who has lived in Yorkshire, with a period of exile in Soho, she certainly knows Essex, London and its environs. This knowledge helps her to craft a gangland thriller that any crime reader will love.
Cabhan Morton wants to leave the Russo crime family, no easy task, and live with his daughter, Alice Rose. He knows the Russo family will not let him walk out, he knows far too much and certainly knows where the bodies are buried. The Russo family will kill him first before they ever allow him to leave. He has no opportunity to run.
He is bullied by the Russo family to accompany 16-year-old Ally Russo home, as she drives a red McLaren GT. Like the rest of the family she likes to show off and bully people and driving fast. On a mountain road with a car far too powerful for her, she loses control, spins the car off the road and is killed but somehow Cabhan survives. When he comes around, he sees Ally is dead and there is enough cocaine stuffed in the car that would put him away. He also sees this as a chance to run, and he takes it.
Franny Doyle would do anything for Cabhan, and especially when she realises the trouble he is in, and that means Alice Rose is also in trouble. Even though she is holding the money for Alfie Jennings an old-time gangster and takes off to help Cabhan, the rush is to get to Alice Rose.
The Russo family will be out for revenge, for the death and more importantly for the cocaine. It does not help that the head of the family, Nico, in prison learns of the death of his daughter and the loss of product, and takes it personal, and sets his brothers to settle the score. They will not care who gets killed if they get in the way, vengeance will theirs and the Alice is dead.
From the USA to England with bodies dropping everywhere the Russo’s close in on Cabhan and Alice Rose, this will be a battle to the death.
February 17, 2019
I haven't read any of the author's previous books, and so this affects my review of Fatal. As a standalone, the story works, but the characters don't, you need to know their stories before the events in Fatal, and so to fully appreciate this story read Toxic first.
The story is fast- paced, violent and focused on the seedier side of life. This gives it the necessary authenticity for a gangland novel. Believable characters and a realistic plot make this an adrenaline packed read.
If you are a fan of gritty, organised crime based thrillers this will excite you.
I received a copy of this book from Avon Books UK via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The story is fast- paced, violent and focused on the seedier side of life. This gives it the necessary authenticity for a gangland novel. Believable characters and a realistic plot make this an adrenaline packed read.
If you are a fan of gritty, organised crime based thrillers this will excite you.
I received a copy of this book from Avon Books UK via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
November 1, 2019
Full of thriller and intense scenes, this book had me gripped from the very start. Some scenes were a bit over the top, and Alice annoyed me at times because she just came across as a brat or did stupid things, but I know that she didn't know any better so it sort of made sense.
I definitely plan on reading the other books by Jacqui Rose as I am definitely hooked now.
I definitely plan on reading the other books by Jacqui Rose as I am definitely hooked now.
January 17, 2019
Brilliant read in one sitting could not put it down
April 13, 2019
Audio version of this book 📚- Great listen, gripping storyline if a little far fetched , narration excellent
February 19, 2022
Another really gripping book. I like how it tied in with the previous book but had a totally seperate story too.
December 28, 2018
Very much in the Martina Cole mould this gangland plot centres on the Russo crime family who are based in the USA but have fingers in foreign pies as well. When Englishman Cabhan Morton wants to leave their gang, not only does he come under threat but so does his 16 year old daughter Alice. Cabhan reaches out to his old friends in Essex and Alfie Jennings and Franny.
The head of the Russo family is in prison and he instructs his brothers to find Alice, and kill her. Surprisingly he has an ally in tracking her down, Alice herself.
A good solid plot with predictable figures, but it works. What did jar somewhat was the cockney ‘voice’ of some of the characters – it just felt very contrived. That said, if this sort of plot is your thing, it is definitely a good read and a bit different. So no complaints from me.
Thank you to the author, publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
The head of the Russo family is in prison and he instructs his brothers to find Alice, and kill her. Surprisingly he has an ally in tracking her down, Alice herself.
A good solid plot with predictable figures, but it works. What did jar somewhat was the cockney ‘voice’ of some of the characters – it just felt very contrived. That said, if this sort of plot is your thing, it is definitely a good read and a bit different. So no complaints from me.
Thank you to the author, publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
January 1, 2019
another brilliant book from this author but would recomend you read the others 1st i so love the caracters in these books if you like gripping greed and a good storyline this the book for you i dont like to give spoilers so wont be giving you the story line this author is a very talanted lady and it give me the giggles in some parts some are very witty so hope there be more from this author next year
December 30, 2018
Another great book from Jacqui. We find out in this book why Franny betrayed Alfie and ran off with his money. After all the trouble Alfie had when he didn’t get his money to buy the business he wanted it’s nothing to what happens when Franny turns back up in his life. Will he help her after what she did. There are lots of twists and turns along the way as Alfie and Franny try to sort everything out. I recommend this book
December 26, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by Jacqui Rose and I really enjoyed it.
It’s a gritty crime thriller which is a bit gruesome at times but with gangsters I suppose things will always get messy.
Cabhan has got himself in trouble with a nasty family called the Russos and calls Franny to help him and his daughter Alice.
The Russos won’t let this drop so start a hunt for them not caring who they hurt along the way.
Franny has to betray Alfie in order to help Cabhan but soon needs his help.
This is a great story that is full of action and will have you on the edge of your seat.
Thanks to Avon and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
It’s a gritty crime thriller which is a bit gruesome at times but with gangsters I suppose things will always get messy.
Cabhan has got himself in trouble with a nasty family called the Russos and calls Franny to help him and his daughter Alice.
The Russos won’t let this drop so start a hunt for them not caring who they hurt along the way.
Franny has to betray Alfie in order to help Cabhan but soon needs his help.
This is a great story that is full of action and will have you on the edge of your seat.
Thanks to Avon and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
December 23, 2018
Now here is a author that does not disappoint!
If you want a book that's full of Turmoil, twists and turns, great characters, etc.......this is a book for you.
Fatal by Jacqui Rose is the second book following the lives of Franny and Alfie and you will find more out about them that were in her first book called Toxic.
This book kept me gripped and I didn't want it to end.
Confession Time - I did shout out aloud in some parts of this book with Alice Rose. I wanted to get inside my kindle and shake her! lol
Jacqui Rose is a brilliant author and I highly recommend all her book. They are all enjoyable and very hard to put down.
You will be hooked! Looking forward to the next book in the series, especially as this book ended which was just brilliant.
Big Thank you to Avon books and NetGalley for a ARC.
Big 5 Stars for this Book.
If you want a book that's full of Turmoil, twists and turns, great characters, etc.......this is a book for you.
Fatal by Jacqui Rose is the second book following the lives of Franny and Alfie and you will find more out about them that were in her first book called Toxic.
This book kept me gripped and I didn't want it to end.
Confession Time - I did shout out aloud in some parts of this book with Alice Rose. I wanted to get inside my kindle and shake her! lol
Jacqui Rose is a brilliant author and I highly recommend all her book. They are all enjoyable and very hard to put down.
You will be hooked! Looking forward to the next book in the series, especially as this book ended which was just brilliant.
Big Thank you to Avon books and NetGalley for a ARC.
Big 5 Stars for this Book.
October 21, 2018
Wow, what a brilliant book.
Nico, Salvadore, and Bobby Russo are three brothers, twisted, dark and will stop at nothing.
Cabhan had gone to work for them even after the warning from Albie not to.
Cabhan is traveling with Nico's daughter when she crashes the car and dies, when he comes round he finds drugs in the door panels, he needs to get rid of them before he can call for help, so he releases it into the air.
The Russo brothers demand he pay back every penny, so he contacts Albies wife Franny, who takes it to him but it is not enough, Cabhan has a vulnerable 16-year-old daughter Alice Rose living in America who only knows convent life and god. Nico wants an eye for an eye and Alice must die..
At the hands of the Russo brothers, Cabhan is in a coma in the hospital so now it is left to Franny, Albie, Lola, and Bree Albie's girlfriend to protect Alice Rose.
They move her from place to place but they are continually found by the Russo's ending up in London England, not realising that Alice rose had befriended Nico who she talks to constantly on the phone telling him each time where she is, he tricks her into thinking he is her dad's friend and wants to surprise him with a birthday party. she doesn't know he is the one that wants her dead and that he is in prison.
Eventually, Alice Rose and her protectors turn up at Abel's house, he has mourned his wife for many years, not left the house or spoken to anybody after the Russos, raped and tortured her in front of him as they believed he had stolen money from them. She hung her self at the house killing herself and their unborn child. He has never got over it and cannot get peace until he gets his revenge, bringing down the Russos and making them all suffer as he has.
Abel trusts Alice Rose and when Franny and Bree are taken hostage by the Russo brothers and held in a cage in a warehouse in appalling conditions, they team up together to bring the Russos down.
Alice Rose has a friend in America Isiah who is a computer nerd and knows all there is to know about systems, and how to access prohibited areas. They make a plan........
This book kept me gripped to the end, it was a turmoil of ups and downs, violence and drama.
Jacqui Rose is a very talented storyteller and i recommended you will really enjoy this unputdownable book
Nico, Salvadore, and Bobby Russo are three brothers, twisted, dark and will stop at nothing.
Cabhan had gone to work for them even after the warning from Albie not to.
Cabhan is traveling with Nico's daughter when she crashes the car and dies, when he comes round he finds drugs in the door panels, he needs to get rid of them before he can call for help, so he releases it into the air.
The Russo brothers demand he pay back every penny, so he contacts Albies wife Franny, who takes it to him but it is not enough, Cabhan has a vulnerable 16-year-old daughter Alice Rose living in America who only knows convent life and god. Nico wants an eye for an eye and Alice must die..
At the hands of the Russo brothers, Cabhan is in a coma in the hospital so now it is left to Franny, Albie, Lola, and Bree Albie's girlfriend to protect Alice Rose.
They move her from place to place but they are continually found by the Russo's ending up in London England, not realising that Alice rose had befriended Nico who she talks to constantly on the phone telling him each time where she is, he tricks her into thinking he is her dad's friend and wants to surprise him with a birthday party. she doesn't know he is the one that wants her dead and that he is in prison.
Eventually, Alice Rose and her protectors turn up at Abel's house, he has mourned his wife for many years, not left the house or spoken to anybody after the Russos, raped and tortured her in front of him as they believed he had stolen money from them. She hung her self at the house killing herself and their unborn child. He has never got over it and cannot get peace until he gets his revenge, bringing down the Russos and making them all suffer as he has.
Abel trusts Alice Rose and when Franny and Bree are taken hostage by the Russo brothers and held in a cage in a warehouse in appalling conditions, they team up together to bring the Russos down.
Alice Rose has a friend in America Isiah who is a computer nerd and knows all there is to know about systems, and how to access prohibited areas. They make a plan........
This book kept me gripped to the end, it was a turmoil of ups and downs, violence and drama.
Jacqui Rose is a very talented storyteller and i recommended you will really enjoy this unputdownable book
February 12, 2019
Jacqui Rose Fatal
A friend recommended Jacqui Rose to me a couple of years and since then I’ve devoured all of her books in jig time. Although I thoroughly enjoyed this book it took a couple of chapters to get into but then I was well and truly hooked.
This is a complicated book and in my opinion it really helps to have read the first book, Toxic. There’s quite a lot back and forth between books and the characters are all intricately woven together fantastically.
The Russo brothers are on the warpath after an accident causes the loss of a rather large quantity of cocaine. There’s no way they are going to let this go so in true gang style they demand to be recompensed in full and if Cahban Morton won’t play ball then they have ace in their pocket, an ace called Alice Rose. Alice is Cahbans 16 year old daughter, the daughter he only recently found out that he had.
Enter Franny Doyle the only person that may be able to help and who just happens to have a couple of million tucked away. A couple of million that belongs to Alfie Jennings an east end gangster returning from America, the money was meant to be used to buy up a ‘business’. From there it just gets messier and messier for all involved, there’s chases, guns and more violence than you can shake a stick at.
If you like the London gangster genre this is a book you should enjoy. If you’ve never read it, give a whirl you never know.
Read for an honest review. Thank you Avon Publishers and Netgalley
A friend recommended Jacqui Rose to me a couple of years and since then I’ve devoured all of her books in jig time. Although I thoroughly enjoyed this book it took a couple of chapters to get into but then I was well and truly hooked.
This is a complicated book and in my opinion it really helps to have read the first book, Toxic. There’s quite a lot back and forth between books and the characters are all intricately woven together fantastically.
The Russo brothers are on the warpath after an accident causes the loss of a rather large quantity of cocaine. There’s no way they are going to let this go so in true gang style they demand to be recompensed in full and if Cahban Morton won’t play ball then they have ace in their pocket, an ace called Alice Rose. Alice is Cahbans 16 year old daughter, the daughter he only recently found out that he had.
Enter Franny Doyle the only person that may be able to help and who just happens to have a couple of million tucked away. A couple of million that belongs to Alfie Jennings an east end gangster returning from America, the money was meant to be used to buy up a ‘business’. From there it just gets messier and messier for all involved, there’s chases, guns and more violence than you can shake a stick at.
If you like the London gangster genre this is a book you should enjoy. If you’ve never read it, give a whirl you never know.
Read for an honest review. Thank you Avon Publishers and Netgalley
September 8, 2025
Having read the last book Toxic, I had an idea of the variety of characters featured and this book moves on to the story of Franny Doyle. Franny has featured in previous books but this is the next instalment in why Franny had gone missing previously and seemingly let Alfie Jennings left to fend for himself. Cabhan and his daughter Alice also feature in this book and they are close friends with Franny, so much so that she will do anything to keep them safe.
Cabhan works for the Russo brothers and has got himself into a dangerous situation that it doesn't look like he can walk away from. That's how Franny finds herself facing up to her mistakes and going to find Alfie to beg not only his forgiveness but his help. These books once you start reading them can become almost addictive and before I knew it I had demolished two thirds of the book in one sitting. Plenty of action, violence and secondary story threads and characters you become invested in. I loved the fact we got to see Franny's reasons for seemingly betraying Alfie in the last book and this was definitely another cracker of a book.
As with the last book I once again was religiously checking I had the next book in this series that I could start as soon as I had finished this one. What I would say is that yes you could read it as a standalone but it's so much better when read as part of the series.
Cabhan works for the Russo brothers and has got himself into a dangerous situation that it doesn't look like he can walk away from. That's how Franny finds herself facing up to her mistakes and going to find Alfie to beg not only his forgiveness but his help. These books once you start reading them can become almost addictive and before I knew it I had demolished two thirds of the book in one sitting. Plenty of action, violence and secondary story threads and characters you become invested in. I loved the fact we got to see Franny's reasons for seemingly betraying Alfie in the last book and this was definitely another cracker of a book.
As with the last book I once again was religiously checking I had the next book in this series that I could start as soon as I had finished this one. What I would say is that yes you could read it as a standalone but it's so much better when read as part of the series.
August 5, 2021
I'm certain this book will be a huge success. I'd love to see a follow up. I'm really interested to see what happens next.
I say that, but I think Rose has left enough unanswered questions. So I eagerly await the next chapter.
Just growing up a few miles from Soho, I have always been drawn to the sights and sounds of the East End. Living there for much of my informative years I miss the noise, the banter and the colourful lives that reside there.
This book has a lot of action and highlights the importance of family. By family I mean your chosen family not necessarily the one your given. Also, the loyalty of friends. But mostly, what we will do to help our family and friends survive even in extreme circumstances.
Even the East Ends worst has a code. A point at which they won't cross. It seems our cousins across the pond don't have those same codes.
It really is a great book. It kept me reading from when i started and couldn't put it down until I had finished. Rose has just got herself another fan. I'm really looking forward to her next book.
Enjoy!
I say that, but I think Rose has left enough unanswered questions. So I eagerly await the next chapter.
Just growing up a few miles from Soho, I have always been drawn to the sights and sounds of the East End. Living there for much of my informative years I miss the noise, the banter and the colourful lives that reside there.
This book has a lot of action and highlights the importance of family. By family I mean your chosen family not necessarily the one your given. Also, the loyalty of friends. But mostly, what we will do to help our family and friends survive even in extreme circumstances.
Even the East Ends worst has a code. A point at which they won't cross. It seems our cousins across the pond don't have those same codes.
It really is a great book. It kept me reading from when i started and couldn't put it down until I had finished. Rose has just got herself another fan. I'm really looking forward to her next book.
Enjoy!
January 2, 2019
Fatal
Be gripped in the new year by the latest crime thriller from the best selling author
by Jacqui Rose
Avon Books UK
Avon
General Fiction (Adult) , Mystery & Thrillers
Pub Date 10 Jan 2019
I am reviewing a copy of Fatal Through Avon Books and Netgalley:
Its dying that’s easy and living that’s hard.
Cabhan Morton wants nothing more than to leave The Russo Crime Family for good so he and his daughter Alice Rose, can live in peace. The Russo’s aren’t going to let him leave without a fight though.
Franny Doyle would do anything to help Cabhan and Alice but helping them escape The Russo brothers is going to be both difficult and dangerous. The only safe place will be in Essex with Alfie Jennings.
Franny knows that Alfie is not going to welcome her with open arms but she doesn’t have a choice. The Russo’s are out to kill Alice.
I give Fatal three out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
Be gripped in the new year by the latest crime thriller from the best selling author
by Jacqui Rose
Avon Books UK
Avon
General Fiction (Adult) , Mystery & Thrillers
Pub Date 10 Jan 2019
I am reviewing a copy of Fatal Through Avon Books and Netgalley:
Its dying that’s easy and living that’s hard.
Cabhan Morton wants nothing more than to leave The Russo Crime Family for good so he and his daughter Alice Rose, can live in peace. The Russo’s aren’t going to let him leave without a fight though.
Franny Doyle would do anything to help Cabhan and Alice but helping them escape The Russo brothers is going to be both difficult and dangerous. The only safe place will be in Essex with Alfie Jennings.
Franny knows that Alfie is not going to welcome her with open arms but she doesn’t have a choice. The Russo’s are out to kill Alice.
I give Fatal three out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
January 10, 2019
It was lovely to reacquaint myself with some old faces from Jacqui’s previous books, with Fatal being the next in this series.
The book introduces us to Cabhan, a member of the Russo gang, who wants to get out. After a fatal accident, in a bid to help Cabhan, Franny is drawn into his clash with the violent Russo’s. This leads Franny right back to the last place she wants to go, Alfie’s doorstep. What follows is a cat and mouse game with the Russo gang and includes Cabham’s 16 year old Daughter, who the Russo brothers are desperate to get their hands on.
There are many violent twists to this book, some of which seem so real as the authors’ descriptive text is second to none. In the main, the book didn’t grip me as well as some of Jacqui’s earlier novels, the book is filled with good old-fashioned gangland crime and the last part of the book was so face-paced that I had to finish it in one sitting.
The book introduces us to Cabhan, a member of the Russo gang, who wants to get out. After a fatal accident, in a bid to help Cabhan, Franny is drawn into his clash with the violent Russo’s. This leads Franny right back to the last place she wants to go, Alfie’s doorstep. What follows is a cat and mouse game with the Russo gang and includes Cabham’s 16 year old Daughter, who the Russo brothers are desperate to get their hands on.
There are many violent twists to this book, some of which seem so real as the authors’ descriptive text is second to none. In the main, the book didn’t grip me as well as some of Jacqui’s earlier novels, the book is filled with good old-fashioned gangland crime and the last part of the book was so face-paced that I had to finish it in one sitting.
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